Ellen's Broom

A young girl learns a new meaning for freedom during the time of Reconstruction

Ellen always knew the broom resting above the hearth was special. Before it was legal for her mother and father to officially be married, the broom was what made them a family anyway. But now all former slaves who had already been married in their hearts could register as lawful husband and wife.

When Ellen and her family make the long trip to the courthouse dressed in their best, she brings the broom her parents had jumped so many years before. Even though freedom has come, Ellen knows the old traditions are important too. After Mama and Papa's names are recorded in the register, Ellen nearly bursts with pride as her parents jump the broom once again.

Ellen is a wonderfully endearing character whose love for her family is brought to life in Daniel Minter's rich and eye-catching block print illustrations.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Published: 01/05/2012
ISBN: 9780399250033
Pages: 32
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 10.60h x 8.80w x 0.40d
Award: North Carolina Children's Book Award - Nominee
Award: Coretta Scott King Award - Honor Book

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 11/28/2011
Kirkus Reviews 01/01/2012
School Library Journal 01/01/2012 pg. 81
Booklist 02/01/2012 pg. 84
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 03/01/2012
Hornbook Guide to Children 07/01/2012 pg. 34 - Below Average, With Minor Flaw

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 148129 / Ellen's Broom
Reading Level: 4.5 / Interest Level: Lower Grade / Point Value: 0.5